do you need a referral for physical therapy

Do You Need a Referral for Physical Therapy in Palm Beach Gardens, FL?

If you’re experiencing pain, mobility issues, or recovering from surgery, you’re likely asking yourself, “Do you need a referral for physical therapy?” Or maybe, “Do I need a referral for physical therapy to get started today?” At TheraHealth and Wellness, based in Palm Beach Gardens, FL, we’re here to give you clear answers and compassionate care—with or without a referral.

Thanks to Florida’s Direct Access law, many patients can begin treatment without the added step of visiting a physician first. This means faster care, fewer delays, and a quicker path toward healing.

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Understanding Direct Access in Florida

Direct Access refers to legislation that allows patients in Florida to seek care from a licensed physical therapist without needing a referral from a physician or specialist. In our state, you can receive physical therapy services for up to 30 consecutive days without a referral.

After that 30-day window, a physician must sign off on your continued care—but don’t worry, we make this process easy by coordinating with local providers if extended treatment is necessary.

Do I Need a Referral for Physical Therapy if I Have Insurance?

This is a common concern for many patients. While Florida law allows you to start therapy without a referral, some insurance companies may still require one for reimbursement. Every plan is different. That’s why our team at TheraHealth and Wellness will:

Verify your benefits before treatment begins

Inform you of any referral requirements based on your insurance provider

Assist in coordinating with your primary care doctor or specialist if a referral is needed

Whether you’re paying out of pocket or going through insurance, we’re committed to helping you understand your options clearly and transparently.

Physical Therapy Services in Palm Beach Gardens and Beyond

Our main clinic is located in Palm Beach Gardens, but our services don’t stop there. We proudly offer in-home physical therapy throughout South Florida, including:

Whether you’re recovering from surgery, dealing with a chronic condition, or just looking to move better, we’ll come to you. In-home visits are ideal for patients who prefer personalized care in the comfort of their own environment, or those with transportation challenges.

What Conditions Can Be Treated Without a Referral?

Thanks to Direct Access, many common conditions don’t require a referral to start:

Joint pain (shoulder, hip, knee)
Low back pain and sciatica
Post-surgical rehab (hip/knee replacement, rotator cuff repair)
Sports injuries
do you need a referral for physical therapy 2
Neurological disorders (such as balance issues or stroke recovery)
Arthritis and age-related mobility loss

You don’t need to wait for a referral to begin healing. We’ll assess your condition during your first visit and develop a customized treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.

What Happens During Your First Appointment?

Your initial session with TheraHealth and Wellness will include:

  1. A detailed consultation and functional assessment to evaluate your range of motion, pain levels, and mobility issues.
  2. Goal setting based on your lifestyle, recovery goals, and physical limitations.
  3. A personalized treatment plan which may include therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, balance training, mobility work, and more.

If you begin without a referral, we’ll track your progress closely and let you know when or if you’ll need documentation from your physician to continue treatment after the 30-day period.

Why Choose TheraHealth and Wellness?

No-referral-needed care available for most patients

In-home visits available throughout St. Lucie, Martin, Palm Beach, and Broward Counties

Care plans tailored to your goals—not a one-size-fits-all approach

Focus on natural, evidence-based therapies to improve your quality of life

Convenient clinic location in Palm Beach Gardens

Fully licensed, compassionate physical therapists

Assistance with insurance verification and paperwork

Start Your Physical Therapy Without the Wait

You don’t have to live with pain, stiffness, or limited mobility. If you’re wondering, “Do I need a referral for physical therapy?”, chances are, you can start treatment today—without waiting for your doctor’s approval.

Let the team at TheraHealth and Wellness help you feel better, move easier, and regain control of your health. Whether you’re in Palm Beach Gardens or need us to come to your home anywhere from St. Lucie to Broward County, we’re here for you.

Call us today to schedule your initial consultation and start your recovery journey—no referral necessary!

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